E is for Excellence!

As I sat in church this Sunday, I was struck by something my pastor, Jason Brown, said. He was calling us as a church to pray for another local pastor and his congregation (something we do regularly each Sunday). But this certain pastor had touched Jason in such a way as to bring him to tears. Jason explained that years ago, when he stepped out in faith to start his own church, this local pastor had sent him flowers with a card that read, "Welcome to the neighborhood." Jason went on to share how easy it is, as a church leader, to get wrapped up in building one's own agenda, reputation, and circle of influence. Yet this humble pastor, by welcoming Jason in such a kind, non-competitive, and open-hearted way, kept the focus on what really mattered -- building GOD's Kingdom here on Earth.

I share this story because Excellence is the theme of my blog this week. And excellence in building God's kingdom is something I see my church strive for in everything they do!

Jason and Angie Brown are anything but perfect - something they'll both admit freely! Yet it's their authentic faith, love, and their heartfelt desire to see the lost found that shines true. In fact,
nineteen:ten church was named and is based upon Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to find and restore the lost.” And from this one verse, the purpose, the vision, and the heartbeat of our church is perfectly explained.

However, what I believe sets my church apart (and I'm admittedly partial!) is the push for excellence. From the moment you enter the doors of our building you're greeted with excellence! From the kind greeters, wonderful guest services, coffee and treats, and a joy that can't help but fill the atmosphere, it's clear that even the decorations were carefully selected and placed to exhibit excellence.

The immaculate sanctuary, the incredibly talented worship team that thrusts us into God's throne room, and Jason's sermons that make us laugh, cry, and realize our desperate need for the only One who can satisfy. All of these combine to create and display excellence! Moreover, the fact that prayer is constantly available (during, after, in between services and throughout the week!) shows the excellence my church has in caring for each and every visitor. The numerous Bible Studies offered throughout the week (and the simple things that are done to make the participants feel loved and welcome) speak of our church's excellence in teaching and training up disciples of Christ. The t-shirts, the hand-outs, the staff, the building itself, the outreach events like JUMP IN and Church in the City, declares its excellence in loving God and loving others!

I love Nineteen:ten church, and I love that it strives to be as excellent as Christ was in His caring, loving, outreach, prayer, discipleship, and worship. And why do they strive? Because it is the LORD they are serving!

Colossians 3:17:
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.


Colossians 3:23-24:
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.